Norfolk State (13-17, 7-8 MEAC) score six runs in the first three innings to hand the Delaware State (16-15-1, 8-4 MEAC) an 8-4 loss on Sunday, April 19 at Marty L. Miller Field. The loss gave NSU the weekend series victory and handed the Hornets their first series loss in the team’s last five tries.

DSU scored four runs on nine hits and committed one error. Three Hornet batters registered multiple hits, including Brandon Crist (2-for-3) and Wynton Weather (2-for-4) who both scored a run on Sunday. Jared Linewaever also has two hits versus the Spartans. Senior Ross Babineaux drove in two runs, going 1-for-3 from plate. Shortstop Jose Sanchez finished the day going 1-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored.

Justin Bittner suffered his second loss of the season in his eighth start of the season, allowing six runs (five earned) on eight hits. The right-hander struck out five NSU batters and walked two in three innings.

Norfolk State came out of the gates, scoring runs in the first three innings, tallying three in the first, one in the second and two in the third to take and early 6-0 lead. The Hornets responded with two runs in the top of the fourth off of a two-RBI single by Babineaux. The Spartans increased their lead with two run in the bottom of the fifth, taking an 8-2 lead. DSU scored a run in the top of the seventh and top of the ninth but, could not overcome the early six-run deficit, falling 8-4.

Norfolk State finished the game, scoring eight runs on 14 hits with one error.

Spartan hurler Jason Barker picked up the win, giving up three runs on six hits in seven innings pitched.

Chris Joyce led the Spartans going 2-for-4, including a double with two RBI.

Delaware State will host the Delaware Blue Hens in a doubleheader on Tuesday, April 21. First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m.